Iowa Department of Public Safety
Larry L. Noble, Commissioner
215 East 7th Street
Des Moines, Iowa 50319
Telephone Number: (515) 725-6182
Facsimile Number: (515) 725-6195

Law Enforcement, Fair Officials Set New Security Standards for 2011 Iowa State Fair

Des Moines, IOWA --- At an early afternoon press conference today, August 3, 2011, community leaders, law enforcement and fair organizers joined to promote a safe and fun 2011 Iowa State Fair in Iowa’s capital city.  Specifically, law enforcement set forth a detailed plan for increased security measures.

State Fair CEO Gary Slater said, “Over the last year, law enforcement, city officials and the Fair have met regularly to create an enhanced security plan that will ensure everyone a safe, family-friendly visit to the Iowa State Fair August 11-21.”

In talking to members of the press and public, representatives from both the Iowa State Patrol and the Des Moines Police Department outlined new or enhanced security efforts. 

Inside the gates of the Iowa State Fair you'll see:

• Additional Troopers working security, particularly during peak hours and late at night 
• Additional security cameras posted throughout the fairgrounds to enable more broad surveillance and early dispersion of rowdy crowds
• Communications operators returned to an onsite communication center to provide faster response to calls for service.

Outside the gates of the State Fair, citizens may observe:

• Increased patrols throughout the surrounding neighborhoods of the Fair Grounds, including 7 to 10 additional officers per night
• High visibility enforcement presence with a Mobile Command Post parked at E. 30th and Grand Ave.
• Utilization of the Community Ambassador Program with numerous representatives both inside and outside the Fair.

Law enforcement and State Fair officials are committed to ensuring a family friendly 2011 Iowa State Fair.  Iowans who choose to attend the fair and violate the law will be dealt with professionally, but quickly.  Officers from all agencies are working cooperatively and maintaining strong lines of communication to prevent major disruption to fair attendees and events.

The Iowa State Fair runs August 11-21, 2011.

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